Value Chain Development Specialist at DAI Kenya - Development Alternatives, Inc.

Objectives and Duties:

The Value Chain Development Specialist will design and lead the implementation of technical activities to promote the development of East African apparel, home décor/fashion accessories and footwear value chains to increase East African exports to the US under AGOA, including through regional sourcing and subcontracting. S/he will work with private sector groups and associations, government export promotion agencies, individual firms, and other stakeholders to identify end market opportunity, and build capacity to meet market demand. The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya with extensive regional travel.

The Value Chain development Specialist will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following detailed tasks:

· Lead market research and end market analyses for key sectors under AGOA including home décor/fashion accessories, apparel, and footwear

· Provide technical assistance to export focused firms to improve product offerings to meet international market demands

· Facilitate linkages between export focused firms and key buyers and other investors

· Provide supervision for subcontracts /grants under the Partnership Fund to increase value chain competitiveness through value addition and technology transfer

· Provide technical expertise and content on AGOA, its regulations and requirements to Hub staff and other stakeholders

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree international trade, economics, public policy, engineering, technology, science, business administration, or related area;

· A Master’s degree in management, economics or business administration preferred.

· At least seven years of relevant experience in trade promotion and investment facilitation Africa.

· Demonstrated experience in export‐focused private sector development in the EAC region.

· Extensive experience in textile and apparel sector in the region, including established relationships with key international investors, trade and business associations, and buyers.

· Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with institutional and private sector partners and stakeholders in a multi-country setting.

· Excellent English writing and communication skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

· The Value Chain Development Specialist will have no supervisory responsibilities.

Base of Operations:

• Nairobi, Kenya

Reporting:

• The Value Chain Development Specialist will report to the Component 3 Lead: Director, Trade Promotion & AGOA.